Iowa mother behind “Friendly Fire” book to be buried today

An Iowa woman who gained national attention in her efforts to find out about the death of her son in Vietnam will be buried today. Ninety-two-year-old Margaret “Peg” Mullen died last Friday of age-related causes.

Mullen was born in Pocahontas and later ended up living in La Porte City with her husband Gene. Mullen was thrust into the national spotlight when here oldest son Michael died in Vietnam in February of 1970. Mullen had trouble getting information from the government on how her son died.

Mullen eventually learned her son was killed by friendly fire. The book “Friendly Fire” about her experiences was turned into a television movie in 1980. Carol Burnett played Mullen in the movie and Ned Beatty played her husband.

The movie won an Emmy for best drama. Mullen remained and activist from then on and was inducted into the Iowa Women’s Hall of Fame in 1998. Mullens funeral is 10:30 today at St. Mary of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Eagle Center. Burial in the church cemetery.